Product Summary

Ring chain is a specialized type of roller chain used in the transmission of mechanical power from one sprocket to another. The ring chain is named for the rubber o-rings built into the metal rollers of every link. Chain manufacturers began to include this feature in the 1980s as a way to improve lubrication to the links of power transmission chains, a service that is vitally important to extending their working life. The rings fit into the gap between the rollers and the links that surround each roller and hold the entire chain together. These rubber fixtures form a barrier that holds factory applied lubricating grease inside of the rollers while still applying sufficient lubrication to the chain body. Further, the rubber o-rings prevent dirt and other contaminants from entering the inside of the chain linkages, where such particles would otherwise cause significant wear.

Ring chains are most notably used in motorcycles, one of the most demanding applications for a metal chain. High RPM and heavy loads require bulky chains, but such engineering increases the effect of friction compared to lighter chains. So lubrication plays a vital role here, but the high RPM also make it very difficult to keep lubrication inside and on the chain. Additionally, motorcycle chains are exposed to a large volume of contaminants and particles and must be protected. rings, as described above, fit this application perfectly.